Jacob isn’t a nutcase. But sometimes he can inspire the notion after a few beers. “It’s all opposites.”
Alex had been relaxed up to that point. “Jacob, please….” Too many friendly nights had gone off the rails.
Philip wasn’t having any of this and casually asked the bartender to close his tab.
Jacob continued, “Don’t you see? It’s the perversity of living.”
Alex didn’t want to leave yet and hoped to change the conversation. “Jacob, my man, that girl in the corner with the blue jacket is eyeing you.”
Philip stood up to go, “See you guys next week,” and sauntered out to catch a bus.
Jacob was undeterred. “Think about it. The things we want most we can’t have.”
Alex didn’t take the bait. “No, it’s Philip. She and her friends were talking about Philip as he headed out.”
Jacob was immersed in a single track. “And what are we left with?”
Alex decided on another approach. “I’m gonna hit the head. Don’t leave with all the women.”
A few moments later, Philip re-approached, “Dude, did you see my wallet?”
Jacob turned, spotted, and pointed to the floor where Philip had been sitting, “It’s waiting for you.”
“I knew it couldn’t have gone far.”
Jacob looked insistently, “Do you care?”
“Damn right. I need this.” Philip glanced at the contents before pocketing — purposely missing what wasn’t being discussed.
“Do you care about the paradox of opposites in this crazy world?”
Philip paused. Maybe now was the time. He put his hand on Jacob’s shoulder, “Dude, I know I’ve said it before, but I want you to know from the bottom of my heart, I’m sorry about what happened to your brother.” His gaze resonated a respect and empathy that only needed to travel an arm’s length but had the impact of a profound message from outer space.
Instantly, the edges of Jacob’s eyes welled with recognition.
“It’s alright.” Philip remained.
Jacob slowly seemed to emerge from some type of vague void, where parts of the soul seek refuge by pretending to forget.
After a few moments, Philip let go of his shoulder. “Take care, my friend. I gotta go.”
A little while later, Alex returned. “What do you say we finish up and grab a bite at Denny’s?” But when he looked for Jacob’s reaction, he grew concerned. “Are you OK?”
Jacob dabbed the corners of his eyes.
Alex offered a cautionary follow-up. “Maybe not Denny’s?”
Jacob took a sip before looking up. “I haven’t been myself these past few months.”
Alex didn’t move.
“I get that my philosophical meanderings don’t always connect.” Jacob appeared sad but lighter and finally said what he hadn’t all this time, “I just miss him.”
Alex assured him, “We all do.”
by George Alger
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